Cameraman Le Bao Han uses a Steadicam system at the parade and march commemorating National Day on September 2nd - Photo: FBNV
At the recent parade commemorating the 80th anniversary of the August Revolution and National Day on September 2nd at Ba Dinh Square in Hanoi , cinematographer Le Bao Han captivated a large audience with incredibly impressive and stunning shots thanks to the application of Steadicam technology.
What does the Steadicam system include?
Speaking to Tuoi Tre Online , Mr. Vu Thanh Quang, head of the Department of Informatics and Television Technology at the College of Television (Hanoi), said that to create the impressive shots that many people have seen, the filmmakers need a complete Steadicam system, including: a protective suit, a mechanical arm, and a central tower.
The vest helps distribute the weight of the camera across the operator's entire body.
The mechanical arm is the core component, acting as a mechanical arm with a system of springs and joints, absorbing and eliminating any vibrations from the operator.
The central sled is where the camera, monitor, battery, and other auxiliary equipment are mounted. This sled is designed to balance the center of gravity, ensuring the camera always remains perfectly horizontal.
"The operating principle of Steadicam is based on physical balance and counterweight. As the cameraman moves, the forces acting on the camera are absorbed by the mechanical arm, keeping the camera stationary."
"This is completely different from traditional methods such as handheld cameras (which are always shaky) or cameras mounted on dollies/cranes, which are limited in space and flexibility," Mr. Quang said.
Notably, the footage from the recent parade not only used traditional Steadicams, but also incorporated a more advanced system called ARRI Trinity.
This is a unique hybrid system, combining a traditional 3-axis mechanical gimbal (for horizontal and vertical stabilization, preventing shaking) and a 5-axis electronic gimbal (enhancing angle control, allowing the operator to change camera angles flexibly while maintaining absolute smoothness).
Teacher Quang explained: "This technology allows for smooth transitions between low-mode and high-mode shots within the same scene, something that traditional equipment struggles to achieve."
For example, the cameraman could follow a soldier closely, then suddenly raise the camera to pan across the entire formation, all in a single shot with no signs of shaking or juddering.”
Steadicam operators need skill, technique, physical fitness, and passion.
Regarding the skills needed to operate the massive Steadicam system mentioned above, according to the head of the Department of Informatics and Television Technology at the College of Television (Hanoi), operators require many qualities.
Firstly, it requires knowledge of technical and cinematic skills, such as understanding how to balance the camera, set technical parameters, and having the ability to sense space and composition.
Secondly, the control skills require seamless coordination between the hands, feet, and the entire body. The movements must be performed smoothly and decisively to create the most fluid camera shot.
Thirdly, physical fitness is crucial. The Steadicam system, including the camera, monitor, and battery, can weigh between 15kg and 30kg. The operator must carry this weight throughout the filming process, often continuously for many hours. Therefore, good stamina and physical fitness are essential for mastering the equipment and producing high-quality footage.
Globally , Steadicam is a standard and indispensable technology in film, television, and advertising production. It has become so popular that most professional film crews have at least one Steadicam specialist.
“In Vietnam, this technique has been applied for many years. However, the number of cinematographers capable of mastering professional Steadicam systems, especially heavy equipment, is still limited. To become a skilled Steadicam operator, in addition to investing in equipment, a long training process is needed, requiring perseverance and great passion,” said Mr. Vu Thanh Quang.
When was Steadicam invented?
Steadicam is a mechanical camera stabilization system invented by filmmaker Garrett Brown in the 1970s.
This technique was developed to overcome the shaky and vibrating nature of handheld cameras, while also allowing the cameraman to move more flexibly and freely compared to dollies or cranes.
Steadicam was first widely used in popular films such as Rocky (1976) and The Shining , with its long, impressive takes.
Source: https://tuoitre.vn/cong-nghe-quay-phim-steadicam-trong-a80-la-gi-20250904171627576.htm
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